Blueprint 2035: Shaping South Carolina’s Economic Future

South Carolina is at a pivotal point in its economic growth. With one of the fastest-growing populations in the nation and a thriving business community, our state has an opportunity to not just keep pace—but to lead. That’s the vision behind Blueprint 2035: A Roadmap for South Carolina’s Economic Future, an initiative of the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce that aims to ensure long-term prosperity through thoughtful planning, strategic investment, and bold policy solutions.

Gathering Local Input: York County’s Role

Recently, the York County Regional Chamber in partnership with the SC Chamber of Commerce hosted a forum where local business leaders had the chance to engage with Blueprint 2035 and share their perspectives on the challenges and opportunities shaping South Carolina’s future economy. As part of the session, participants completed a live survey that revealed some of the most pressing issues our business community is facing.

Here’s what they had to say—and how the Chamber is responding:

What’s driving the skills shortage?

• 54 respondents identified a misalignment between education programs and employer needs.

  • How we’re addressing it: The Chamber is tackling this challenge head-on through our Leadership Institute For Talent (LIFT) programs, including Business Expedition and EPIC, which connect students directly with career pathways and ensure educational programs align with workforce needs.

• 31 respondents pointed to childcare and caregiving responsibilities as a major barrier keeping individuals out of the workforce.

  • How we’re addressing it: The Chamber is deeply engaged in these conversations and leading efforts to identify solutions. Recently, our Vice President of Talent & Workforce Development, Celeste Tiller, was selected by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation to participate in a national Master Class through the Business Leads Fellowship Program - bringing together business leaders from across the country to explore innovative, community-based childcare solutions.

What’s one big policy change that could supercharge SC’s economy?

• The overwhelming response: Tax reform.

  • How we’re addressing it: The Chamber continues to advocate for pro-business policies that create a competitive climate for growth, investment, and innovation.

What’s the biggest risk to maintaining economic momentum in SC?

• 33 respondents cited workforce shortages.

  • How we’re addressing it: Workforce is consistently the highest priority for York County businesses—and with good reason. While baby boomers continue retiring, birth rates are falling, and four-year college enrollment is declining, many employers struggle to identify, train, attract, and retain the workers they need. Under LIFT, the Chamber has developed a comprehensive set of strategies to strengthen our talent pipeline.

View the full presentation and survey responses here. 

A Shared Path Forward

These real-time responses highlight the connection between the challenges our local businesses face and the statewide priorities outlined in Blueprint 2035. From workforce development and tax reform to infrastructure and innovation, it’s clear that South Carolina’s economic future depends on collaborative solutions.

The York County Regional Chamber is proud to play a role in this effort—supporting our local businesses while contributing to the broader statewide vision of making South Carolina the best place to live, work, and do business.

Looking Ahead

Blueprint 2035 is more than a plan; it’s a call to action. By aligning education with employer needs, addressing workforce barriers, advocating for smart policies, and preparing for future opportunities, we are setting the stage for long-term prosperity.

And right here in York County, we’re committed to ensuring that our businesses not only have a seat at the table but a strong voice in shaping the future of South Carolina’s economy.

Next up, we are hosting our signature Workforce Development event, Talent Flow: Aligning Talent Through Regional Collaboration. Featuring keynote speaker Dr. Rebecca Battle-Bryant, Director of Statewide Workforce Development, this event brings together education, business, and community leaders to explore innovative solutions to our region’s workforce challenges.  You’ll also gain insight into real-world strategies for addressing barriers like childcare, housing, and skills gaps—critical components to strengthening and sustaining a resilient talent pipeline. Learn more here!